Historic ‘Rumah Hijau’ Restored As Living Heritage Gallery At Kota Kayang Museum

KANGAR, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- Rumah Hijau, the birthplace of the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, located within the Kota Kayang Museum complex in Kuala Perlis, has become one of the latest tourist attractions in the state for its unique architecture and rich historical value.

Originally built in Arau more than a century ago, the traditional house was relocated to the museum grounds through the collaboration of the Perlis government and the Public Works Department (JKR) to preserve its structure and transform the house into an exhibition gallery, as part of efforts to safeguard Perlis’ history and heritage.

Kota Kayang Museum director Siti Munirah Kasim said Rumah Hijau is not only a symbol of heritage but also serves as a learning medium that brings the public closer to the history of the Perlis royal family and the traditional Malay culture of the past.

“Rumah Hijau, which officially opens today, will be a major attraction for local and foreign tourists who wish to explore the architectural heritage and experience the ambience of a traditional Perlis Malay home.

“The original wooden structure has been retained, while the interior showcases various historical items from the Perlis royal family to recreate the authentic setting of a Malay home from a bygone era,” she told Bernama.

Earlier, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin launched the Fiesta Uniti @ Muzium Kota Kayang and opened the Rumah Hijau.

Also present was the Raja Perempuan of Perlis, Tuanku Tengku Fauziah Tengku Abdul Rashid.

Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang also attended the event.

Siti Munirah said the initiative to relocate Rumah Hijau to the museum complements its role as a heritage institution that connects the community with the state’s history and culture.

“We want this museum to be more than just an exhibition space; it should be a place for community interaction, learning, sharing, and contributing to heritage preservation,” she said.

In line with this effort, she also welcomes contributions from philanthropists and capable individuals to adopt Rumah Hijau as ‘galeri angkat’ (sponsored gallery) by providing financial assistance for its maintenance to help preserve its traditional features and heritage value.

“Old houses like this are challenging to maintain as they require meticulous care, such as ensuring the paint does not fade and other maintenance works.

“Donors who contribute will be eligible for tax exemptions and receive certificates of appreciation. We want the public to become part of the museum, not only as visitors but also as heritage philanthropists who contribute expertise, collections, and funds to keep history alive,” she said.

With Rumah Hijau’s unique features and diverse historical collections, Siti Munirah said the Kota Kayang Museum, the only museum in Perlis, will continue to serve as an important state landmark and a must-visit heritage tourism destination.

Meanwhile, she said some locals have also donated items such as old sugarcane machines and traditional tools to the museum as a way of honouring their family heritage.

“Sometimes, people prefer not to keep old items at home because they don’t know how to properly care for them. We have conservation experts who can ensure these items are well preserved,” she said.

Siti Munirah said the public’s willingness to contribute collections and funds to museums, in line with the collection donation campaign initiated by the Department of Museums Malaysia, reflects a strong sense of shared responsibility in preserving the state’s heritage. 

She also urged philanthropists and capable individuals to support the preservation and conservation of the 22 federal museums nationwide.

-- BERNAMA